7 Mistakes I Made Starting a Non Profit

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  • Опубліковано 2 лют 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 368

  • @AmberMelanieSmith
    @AmberMelanieSmith  3 роки тому +27

    My Nonprofit Founder to Full-Time Academy -- with online trainings to guide you through the steps to start a nonprofit and more -- is now LIVE! foundertofulltime.com/

  • @KeithKostka8
    @KeithKostka8 Рік тому +7

    As a new non-profit founder, I really appreciate your vulnerability and guidance. Thanks for laying out the blueprint!

  • @KungPuKittyRescue
    @KungPuKittyRescue Рік тому +7

    I am taking a graphic design course, just for branding and marketing purposes , website creation. all for my nonprofit to be successful

  • @renee92jones34
    @renee92jones34 2 роки тому +16

    This is the third video I watched of yours. You are answering so many questions and hopefully preventing mistakes I may encounter. Especially about saying “Yes” to everyone. I suffer from being a people pleaser. Hearing you say this stopped me in my tracks. I have to exercise the freedom of saying “No.”

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  2 роки тому +1

      YESSS me too! Thank you so much for watching and I'm so happy to hear the videos are helpful!

  • @TheRacingWind
    @TheRacingWind 4 роки тому +38

    I'm writing my business plan right now and you are helping me tremendously to make decisions early! I haven't even filed any paperwork yet and I feel secure in my concept, branding, and revenue plan. Thank you!

  • @peacefulway3
    @peacefulway3 2 роки тому +6

    As the founder of a nonprofit, I can honestly say that all these 7 points are spot on. And yes it takes lots of patience.

  • @ScottTAllison
    @ScottTAllison 5 років тому +29

    Extremely helpful video. The nonprofit I'm in has made several of these same mistakes, so I wish this video existed 5 years ago!

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  5 років тому +3

      Thank you! Were there other mistakes / challenges you all faced I didn't cover? I'd love to hear about them!

  • @lizngeci937
    @lizngeci937 2 місяці тому +1

    Great...you have really opened me up Amber..this is my passion. I will do it .
    Thankyou and GOD bless you.

  • @harolddoctor8360
    @harolddoctor8360 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks!

  • @emmanueltolias6994
    @emmanueltolias6994 3 роки тому +3

    Thank you for sharing. You are activating and supporting good. :)

  • @chantewilliams4709
    @chantewilliams4709 7 місяців тому +1

    This was extremely helpful! Thank you!

  • @mankelemalepe2697
    @mankelemalepe2697 4 роки тому +9

    This is so informative,I've recently been watching your videos and Lord, I Thank you for this. I was about to make huge mistakes. This is very much appreciated and motivating.. Now i know where to focus my energy.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому

      So glad it was helpful! What stage are you in in building your efforts?

    • @mankelemalepe2697
      @mankelemalepe2697 4 роки тому +1

      @@AmberMelanieSmith am currently re-writing the vision and mission. They weren't clear enough.And also the "Don't do everything on your own".. That has been me, I've been so overwhelmed with a lot to do that I hardly ask others to help me.

  • @EconomicsOnTheMove
    @EconomicsOnTheMove Рік тому +2

    I committed these 7 mistakes in starting my nonprofit. Thanks for sharing.

  • @davidgreen3298
    @davidgreen3298 4 роки тому +7

    Thank you, I am right at the very beginning of the process of starting a NPO found this video very informative, keep up the good work

  • @iggygirlsballersclub7819
    @iggygirlsballersclub7819 5 місяців тому +2

    Thank you so much!!! I learned alot 😊❤

  • @richardschneider9279
    @richardschneider9279 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks for your advice and positive attitude and outlook.

  • @rafiwakman7897
    @rafiwakman7897 11 місяців тому +2

    Thank you for sharing such a wonderful information regarding nonprofit

  • @hodatara5464
    @hodatara5464 3 роки тому +1

    What you are doing is so amazing! You are helping a very large audience by guiding the ones that want to help millions! God bless you!

  • @jenniferlosee3189
    @jenniferlosee3189 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you for sharing your mistakes and being vulnerable about your experience. It can be hard to admit that we didn't do something perfectly the first time!

  • @queencare_itsamomthing
    @queencare_itsamomthing Рік тому +2

    Thank you so much. These are great starting pointers, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to learn from your mistakes!

  • @kw1283
    @kw1283 2 роки тому +3

    Working as a team to make the strategic vision... this resonated with me and is something I absolutely need to do. This video was very helpful. Thank you!

  • @arjelofranzchristmiso7594
    @arjelofranzchristmiso7594 Рік тому +1

    Thank you so much Melanie. Learning a lot from videos. Learning from Philippines here...😅
    Thanks for honestly sharing your mistakes..

  • @paulacsnyder
    @paulacsnyder 5 років тому +13

    Very comprehensive comments that could be helpful to nonprofits and entrepreneurs. Share with your contacts!

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  5 років тому +1

      Thank you! I hope folks find this helpful for sure!

  • @randikwe7
    @randikwe7 Рік тому +2

    Your videos are wonderful!! Thank you for sharing your knowledge

  • @undiagnosticonotedefine1125
    @undiagnosticonotedefine1125 Рік тому +2

    Thanks for so much! Blessings! LOve it!

  • @physicianchurchofchrist1232
    @physicianchurchofchrist1232 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much ! God Bless you ! So much info I have gotten through your videos ! Your Awesome !

  • @emilyfam421
    @emilyfam421 4 роки тому +4

    Your video is so useful. I am a college student and starting a non-profit with a group of friends and I am so lost on how to lead my team. Thanks for your videos

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому

      Yay! You bet!

    • @SFVS_UG
      @SFVS_UG 2 роки тому

      Hi Emily how is your Non profit going now? Would love to hear about it

  • @saintmichael2759
    @saintmichael2759 2 роки тому +2

    Great stuff Amber! Much of what you said I never considered and can definitely see how that could lead to unnecessary problems in the making for years. Oh boy.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  2 роки тому

      We're all learning all the time! Thanks so much for watching :)

  • @stymokolo2443
    @stymokolo2443 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much my sister this video is what i have been wating to watch but i am so happy because God made it possible today.my foundation was registered two months ago and i believe God will give me power and help me not to forget your advices here. i am a disabled girl who wants to change my country Lesotho by the grace of GOD

  • @GLOBALEXPERIENCESS
    @GLOBALEXPERIENCESS 5 місяців тому +2

    Beautiful video amber

  • @isaactewhetu922
    @isaactewhetu922 4 роки тому +3

    you are absolutely awesome, thank you sharing so much knowledge,
    God bless you Amber.

  • @isaacluke18
    @isaacluke18 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you Amber.
    This video helps a lot.

  • @jenimorrison1112
    @jenimorrison1112 2 роки тому +2

    Fantastic video!! Thank you!

  • @hannah3052
    @hannah3052 2 роки тому +2

    This is gold, thank you!

  • @lubnamaktari8217
    @lubnamaktari8217 4 роки тому +5

    This video exceeded my expectations in terms of being a very honest account of what are very typical mistakes made by non-profits - mine included. I especially loved the commentary about the power and importance of branding as this is a battle I am still fighting, would love to have additional tips about how to win this one.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому

      So glad the video helped! What are your branding challenges, would you say?

    • @lubnamaktari8217
      @lubnamaktari8217 4 роки тому

      @@AmberMelanieSmith we've changed our name and logo often in response to work we are doing at that moment. But in doing so, with the proliferation of logos that we've created, it has served just to confuse us and others. I suppose it's the name which is the greatest challenge.

  • @angiepfeiffer9181
    @angiepfeiffer9181 3 роки тому +2

    Girl ! I have done them all my first time around!!! Such valuable info!!! Thank you for sharing and helping others hopefully avoid these same pitfalls.. ❤️

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  3 роки тому

      Feels good to know I'm not alone! 😂 Thanks so much for watching!

  • @voluntarycke
    @voluntarycke 3 роки тому +2

    Hi Amber. This is very helpful.Thanks for sharing.

  • @akanisiratumaikoro7874
    @akanisiratumaikoro7874 3 роки тому +2

    I am just want to begin my NGO and watching your videos is really helpful....

  • @omobolaolaribigbe5126
    @omobolaolaribigbe5126 3 роки тому +3

    This is a guide for our organisation. Great video Amber. Thank you 🙏

  • @sevenmountains1094
    @sevenmountains1094 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks very much for for the information really there helpful to me. God bless you.

  • @faux-real
    @faux-real 5 років тому +4

    9:21 Brilliant! This is so inspiring. Thank you.

  • @RevDrAllen
    @RevDrAllen 4 роки тому +4

    Amber this is soooo helpful. Thank you!!

  • @akanisiratumaikoro7874
    @akanisiratumaikoro7874 3 роки тому +2

    100 percent helpful Ms Amber God bless you

  • @Movingcompanyhustle
    @Movingcompanyhustle Рік тому +2

    Great video! Thank you for all the knowledge, Amber.

  • @laquitamedlock8735
    @laquitamedlock8735 5 років тому +3

    Thank you so much! The information you have shared is invaluable. I wish you much success in all your endeavors.

  • @shadetonye6863
    @shadetonye6863 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you Amber

  • @diborakassa628
    @diborakassa628 10 місяців тому +1

    Thank you very much this helpful idea

  • @HomemadeAC
    @HomemadeAC 3 роки тому +2

    Excellent video Amber amen.
    Thoroughly enjoying and digesting your teachings...
    Thanks, James & Kitty😺

  • @callmelil
    @callmelil 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for sharing your experience with us, Amber. Awesome video! 👍

  • @justinstone6483
    @justinstone6483 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you for the information. Ive had some big dreams and ideas when it comes to helping make the world a better place. My focus has to do with children and emotional literacy... The delay has always been with not knowing where to start and how to ensure progress... Your videos are helpful.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  3 роки тому

      Often not knowing where to start is the big barrier! Thank you for your comment and your dreams. :) We need those big dreams!

  • @chrisdennis3944
    @chrisdennis3944 2 роки тому +2

    Very helpful. You are very clear and I love when you give examples. Thank you!!

  • @oskararif
    @oskararif 4 роки тому +2

    Excellent knowledgeable video. Very much inspired. Thank you so much.

  • @rahimkimaka5671
    @rahimkimaka5671 2 роки тому +2

    I'm grateful for the work your doing, actually I have learnt some ideas from and hope to be in touch with you all times

  • @STARSFashionArtLove
    @STARSFashionArtLove 3 роки тому +1

    Keep shining you Stars!🍾🌟💖💛💚

  • @TheSocialHigh333
    @TheSocialHigh333 2 роки тому +2

    This was amazing. Thank you💎

  • @SomeMoms
    @SomeMoms 2 роки тому +1

    I definitely needed some help. I have no clue which way to turn. My goal is to help my friend get here from Ghana- then help the entire town by starting a garden, donating to orphanages. I’ve known him for years and it’s time that I do something to help. He barely has food to eat, no jobs, filthy..

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  2 роки тому

      Have you been able to identify any NGOs/groups already on the ground to support your friend?

  • @fifiture_
    @fifiture_ 2 роки тому +2

    I felt like you were speaking to me! Thank you for these

  • @YourVegasRealtor
    @YourVegasRealtor 3 роки тому +2

    Awesome video. Glad I found this great video on this subject. I just requested to join you FB group and subscribed!

  • @wellnessislife999
    @wellnessislife999 2 роки тому +2

    Gratitude 🤗

  • @mihailcosman4287
    @mihailcosman4287 Рік тому +2

    Thanks a lot!

  • @tracygeorge1929
    @tracygeorge1929 4 роки тому +4

    Thank you for this insightful video.

  • @BrianD914
    @BrianD914 2 роки тому +1

    Absolutely love you videos! Thank you!

  • @heidiminjuk2885
    @heidiminjuk2885 3 місяці тому

    Thanks 🙏 for the video show still in the process to open an no profitable assocition

  • @bgdojo
    @bgdojo Рік тому +2

    Amazing video🎉

  • @jaytrump2537
    @jaytrump2537 2 роки тому +2

    Thank u AMS

  • @paigebutler5721
    @paigebutler5721 3 роки тому +3

    Yessss

  • @HyoJinLee-m1o
    @HyoJinLee-m1o Рік тому

    Thank you for all your videos!

  • @StorytimeCandice
    @StorytimeCandice 8 місяців тому +1

    Excellent thank you!

  • @ikormiadmin9693
    @ikormiadmin9693 Рік тому +1

    Liked this really.

  • @itzibitzi6795
    @itzibitzi6795 4 роки тому +4

    The best video I watched in a while. Thanks a lot for your good work and for inspiring others! I am interested to know what you studied and how it helped you in your non profit organization :)

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому +1

      I'm so glad it helped! In college, I was able to design my own major, which was called "Social Change Leadership" to help me learn how leaders can help create social change. Then I did a Masters program where I learned about nonprofit management. It definitely helped! I'll be doing a video on college courses to take if you're interested in doing this kind of work soon!

    • @itzibitzi6795
      @itzibitzi6795 4 роки тому

      Sounds great! Thanks for your answer! Before university I volunteered with some social organizations and realised that there is a big need of good leadership. That's why one of the main reasons I started studying business economics last year was to learn business skills and fill this gap to make social organizations better or even start my own one day. However, I am struggling with my choice of studies right now because I don't feel a great interest in the topic itself. I believe that I have qualities to study business and to become a good leader, but I just don't have a clear vision yet or very much experience and I am afraid to end up with an office job :D.. So all I know right now is that I love developing good projects, I like doing it on a professional level and encourage others. I was also thinking of doing a master programm in social economics later on... I guess I'll see if I stick to the plan :) and I am really looking forward to your video about it :))
      Greetings from Germany ☺️

  • @saaravelikoshi2012
    @saaravelikoshi2012 3 роки тому +2

    Than you Amber, I am so glad I stumbled upon your channel. New Sub.

  • @rostanley
    @rostanley 4 роки тому +3

    Thanks so much for this information! It was very very helpful. I am starting and organization here in Baltimore Maryland it’s called MAMI mothers against mental illness it’s an LLC right now but I want to switch to a nonprofit organization your information was very very helpful! Thanks so much and I will definitely continue watching!

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому +1

      That's a beautiful mission!

    • @rostanley
      @rostanley 4 роки тому

      Amber Melanie Smith thanks so much! I do have a Facebook group for us I am looking for yours I would love to check it out! Thanks again for providing us with this pertinent information I sent this video to my board of directors LOL I told them they need to watch this but also need to hold me accountable if I’m not doing my part as iCEO... you should hold classes and maybe even charge for them! You you give great information for beginners like myself keep up the great work!

  • @judyhoyle4718
    @judyhoyle4718 4 роки тому +4

    I SO needed to hear #6! It's difficult for me to allow others in, especially at the beginning of this journey. I made an agreement with myself that I will get the base items completed, and then I MUST allow others to participate and invest themselves into the organization's purpose and goal. What you said confirms what I feel about myself.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому +1

      This was one of the HARDEST things for me! But having a team is awesome and has made all the difference.

  • @terrancemonster
    @terrancemonster 4 роки тому +2

    Inspired. Thankyou

  • @ProjectMujaddid
    @ProjectMujaddid 4 роки тому +4

    This is incredibly helpful, I’ve been trying to start something for months and it’s been such a confused mess without clear guidance - this has really helped me to go step by step and create a definite, professional vision and action plan. It’s actually quite similar to project management, but with a much larger panoramic view. Thank you for sharing and helping. 🙏

  • @tony3787
    @tony3787 Рік тому

    Thank you for sharing!!

  • @ericamoah4832
    @ericamoah4832 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much

  • @515sbest
    @515sbest 4 роки тому +3

    KEEP INSPIRING AMBER 🙏

  • @tyjameson7404
    @tyjameson7404 4 роки тому +4

    She is so beautiful and has an amazing heart ❤️ 👍🏼🙏🏽👏🙌🏼👌thank you for the value of this video ☑️

  • @chrisfossofficial
    @chrisfossofficial Рік тому +1

    Thank you, very helpful

  • @pellagiamamvuto9361
    @pellagiamamvuto9361 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you for this Amber. I’m thinking of starting my CBO in health too. I have already identified trustees who have tremendous skills in various fields. However, health is broad and I’m stuck on what I should really focus on because my community basically encounter a number of health problems which I want to put my contribution in assisting. I am stuck on branding, vision etc.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  3 роки тому +2

      I would say, what is the biggest need in your community that is being the most neglected / not worked on by anyone else? That would be where I'd start!

  • @johnsheridan6762
    @johnsheridan6762 4 роки тому +1

    Not looking to put myself out of business, but to create support for artists going on forever.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому +1

      There are most certainly causes and issues that need ongoing support if new populations continue to need those services! The idea behind "putting yourself out of business" is about creating a world in which the problem you're tackling has ultimately been solved. In your example of getting artists support, an example of 'putting yourself out of business' would be 'creating a world in which the public adequately supports artists' (in which case your nonprofit would no longer need to exist!). Make sense?

  • @alfredsegbejr3067
    @alfredsegbejr3067 4 роки тому +1

    Great video Amber. You motivated me in this video.

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому +1

      I'm so glad! What are you working on / trying to work on?

  • @ajuarichard4126
    @ajuarichard4126 4 роки тому +1

    I must say this really worked for me thanks Melanie

  • @lindarotich8771
    @lindarotich8771 4 роки тому +1

    Very informative and eye opening. Thank you for helping me begin to have my focused vision.

  • @frankfitiaelmbise9682
    @frankfitiaelmbise9682 4 роки тому +2

    Umber let God bless you for a nice lesson ,I am in process to open my NGO and I have started a lot in the process ,since I listened to you my dear things are going to change complete .I am from Tanzania here my NGO's name faith children foundation thanks a lot.

  • @Coach_Andree
    @Coach_Andree 4 роки тому +1

    this was helpful & so true , thank you

  • @AmberMelanieSmith
    @AmberMelanieSmith  5 років тому +7

    I'd be curious to hear - what are some of your start up mistakes?

    • @ProjectMujaddid
      @ProjectMujaddid 4 роки тому +3

      Trying to bring together a board of picky people who were interested, rather than people who are qualified and can strategically help with the goals involved. Where should one recruit board members nowadays?

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  4 роки тому

      Depends on the skills required! This video I did on board recruitment might help: ua-cam.com/video/DLZb7SooZ8U/v-deo.html

  • @misslovely1705
    @misslovely1705 4 роки тому +1

    Great video! Thank you for sharing this information.

  • @jessicaadlam1883
    @jessicaadlam1883 4 роки тому

    Thank you so much for this video. Great direct tools that will help

  • @tonib7653
    @tonib7653 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the great content 👍

  • @minthilltennis9868
    @minthilltennis9868 4 роки тому +1

    Thanks for your great videos!

  • @shirleytrainor8043
    @shirleytrainor8043 3 роки тому +2

    That was quite helpful.

  • @TomyEdenson-ps1zr
    @TomyEdenson-ps1zr Рік тому +1

    I see reality in you

  • @hemhoorsingerofficaloffici6775
    @hemhoorsingerofficaloffici6775 4 роки тому +1

    I must say this will really work for me , thank you Melanie

  • @julietdumas2356
    @julietdumas2356 4 роки тому +2

    this has been very helpful for me for I am in the midst of starting one. I don't know who trust it with as I do not live in the country that I want to operate in.

  • @DavidPat
    @DavidPat 4 роки тому +1

    I sent this to my friends. Thank you for making this.

  • @jamesfagfoomsintu1100
    @jamesfagfoomsintu1100 11 місяців тому +2

    Hi. How can we chat privately? I appreciate your efforts in educating those starting up a non profit. I'm on the path to starting mine. This community is important to me. Thank you. I hope to hear back. Blessings!

  • @Jethrocapta
    @Jethrocapta 3 роки тому +2

    Hi Melanie, thanks for this amazing video.
    I have this vision to create an NGO to help others. Watching your video has orientated me...I feel confident that I am on track. Thank God
    Please could give us so tips on drafting a strategic plan for a NGO? Thanks

    • @AmberMelanieSmith
      @AmberMelanieSmith  3 роки тому

      I'm so glad the videos help! Here's a video that may help you -- How to Write a Nonprofit Business Plan: ua-cam.com/video/HXvkz2l2NRM/v-deo.html

  • @charitydonationfoundationi3441
    @charitydonationfoundationi3441 3 роки тому +1

    helpful video!